Taking Applications from Leaders of Tomorrow
OKLAHOMA CITY (March 20, 2026) – The State Chamber Research Foundation has opened the application process for the 16th year of the Leadership Exchange Academy
. LEA is a course designed to equip Oklahoma’s future business and political leaders with the knowledge and connections they will need to make Oklahoma one of the strongest economies in the nation.
The exclusive LEA cohort will take the brightest from across the entire state’s business sectors. Participants will engage in two-day conferences that are designed to connect civic-minded professionals with state government and business leaders.
The conferences will be held June 25–26 and July 23–24. Applications must be submitted by April 17 to be considered for participation in the program.
A series of distinguished speakers will educate cohort participants on public policy, good government practices, and free enterprise, and provide invaluable insight on how state government impacts business development.
“The cohort program helps participants build relationships with peers, Oklahoma leaders, and public policy experts,” said Dana Gillett, State Chamber Research Foundation deputy director. “Alumni of the LEA cohort program are able to attend alumni events throughout the year to continue to build relationships for years to come.”
Luke Reynolds, public affairs director for The State Chamber, will participate in the cohort.
“I’m excited to participate in LEA because understanding the fine points of how state policy is made is essential to driving meaningful, lasting change in our communities,” Reynolds said. “This is an opportunity to deepen my impact at The State Chamber by learning how to effectively engage with the systems that shape our daily lives.”
Alumni of the program include numerous influential Oklahomans including current legislative leaders Speaker Kyle Hilbert and Pro Temp Lonnie Paxton.
LEA gives Oklahoma professionals the opportunity to make connections that will shape not only their careers but also the state’s future.